The English love Tuscany – so much so that it has been dubbed Chiantishire, as they decamp from gloomy England and set up in villas for a summer of sightseeing, swimming and socialising. But Tuscany is large and there are many hidden or lesser-known places so you don't have to mix with your fellow Brits if you don't want to. The landscape, recognisable as the background of countless Renaissance Madonnas, remains relatively unspoiled, dotted with ancient farmhouses which have been beautifully restored into villas or boutique Tuscan hotels .

For a summer stay that showcases the best of this beautiful region, these addresses get our pick for being the best villas in Tuscany..